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As new web standards emerge and the development process of mobile applications progresses, there has been much controversy over whether businesses should opt for native or HTML5 apps. Is the war finally over? You decide…

HTML5

When you strip down an HTML5 app, it is basically just a mobile website designed to work on a smaller screen (i.e. a smartphone or tablet). HTML5 apps are great because they are designed to work with any running system and on any device; however, this can also cause the app to encounter functionality issues because the conversion to some devices will not always be clean. On the flip side, HTML5 allows for a more visually stunning design. HTML5 applications are also relatively easy and inexpensive to develop, maintain, and support because the content is created for universal use – from desktop to smartphone.

Native

Native apps are a single platform design – meaning they are developed for use on a specific device and running system. This allows for a better user experience because the app runs smoother, faster, and more efficiently. These apps offer superior online and offline performance and security, something you won’t find with a web-based app. Functionality is familiar and built-in components such as camera, geolocation, and storage can be utilized seamlessly. One downfall of native apps is that they are not universal so you will need to develop a unique one for each platform which can be more expensive to design and maintain.

While HTML5 has been taking the internet by storm, when it comes to mobile apps, Native seems to be the front runner, offering the most important component – a greater user experience.